Makhadzi receives backlash for providing financial assistance to a majority of students who study at University of Venda.
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Music sensation Makhadzi has faced backlash after announcing on social media her plan to offer financial assistance to 20 South African students, the majority of whom are from the University of Venda.
The Limpopo-born artist announced on her social media platforms on January 29 that she will offer financial assistance to 20 students in South Africa through the Makhadzi Student Registration Initiative, aimed at helping those who need support with their registration fees.
Makhadzi urged students nationally to send their proof of registration as well as a motivation letter to explain why they need the financial assistance.
This act of kindness has shown how students nationally suffer during this time of the year, especially when it comes to paying their registration fees.
In just 24 hours, the 28-year-old provided an update and revealed that they have received over 5, 000 applications and chose the 20 students that will be assisted.
Makhadzi also shared that she never expected to receive such a high number of applications.
“I never expected this level of demand. It breaks my heart to see how many students struggle just to get a chance at education. I have committed to playing my part in assisting where I can, but I need the society to lend a hand so that together we can reach even more students in need,” she wrote.
From the twenty that were chosen, ten of the students are from the University of Venda. This raised eyebrows as Makhadzi is also Venda and her fans shared that they do not think that it is fair that she mainly chose students from the University of Venda.
Among the selected students, three are from the University of Limpopo, one from the University of Pretoria, one from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, one from the University of South Africa, one from the University of Johannesburg, one from Tshwane University of Technology, one from Vaal University of Technology, and one from Nelson Mandela University.
Even though this financial assistance was an act of kindness, many social media users criticised Makhadzi for choosing the majority of University of Venda students.
Facebook user @Tshimega Lawrence Gaotlholwe commented, “Why didn’t you say it’s only for Vendas only? Cause your list says a lot.”
Facebook user @Ntokozo Ndeke Dlamini wrote: “Only entitled to Venda people and Univen students. Discrimination will never end. Anyway, all the best to all those selected students.”
Another Facebook user @Italia X Lashegos said, “You could have said you want your Venda people or people who are studying in Univen or university with less registration fee. Because there’s no Stellenbosch, Wits and NWU. You did a good job but you should be specific next time please.”
While some Facebook users criticised her for mainly choosing students who study at the University of Venda, others applauded her for this initiative.
Facebook user @Rose Sithole said, “Her money, her choice, stop criticising and appreciate what she’s doing. MORE GRACE UPON YOU KHAZI.”
Facebook user @Mokgaetji Masopoga commented, “20 families will benefit from this initiative in the coming years but nah people still complain instead of congratulating. Well done to everyone.”
IOL